Name: Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 420 min
Total time: 430 min
Ingredients: 1½ pounds shredded rotisserie chicken (fully cooked); 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 cups water; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 yellow onion yellow onion (diced); 3 carrots carrots (peeled and diced); 3 ribs celery (diced); 30 ounces Great Northern beans (drained and rinsed (2 (15-ounce) cans)); 2 bay leaves bay leaves; 4 cups baby spinach; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

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When the chill of winter sets in, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup to wrap you in comfort. Picture this: it’s a cold evening, and the sky is draped in shades of gray. You come home after a long day, greeted by the rich, savory aroma wafting through your kitchen. I love how this soup transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, nourishing dish that brings everyone together around the table. The magic of a slow cooker means you can toss everything in, forget about it, and come back to a bubbling pot of deliciousness. Your family will be eager to dive in, and you’ll feel like a culinary hero without the hassle. Plus, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping, so you can enjoy it all week long. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this soul-soothing soup!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
7 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
420 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
550 kcal

Protein:
45 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Crockpot

Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to focus on more important things while it cooks. Just toss in your ingredients, turn on the slow cooker, and you’ve got a meal that practically cooks itself. Next, the flavor profile is divine! The combination of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and aromatic garlic creates a rich broth that’s both satisfying and revitalizing. Not to mention, it’s packed with nutrients—carrots, celery, and great northern beans contribute fiber and essential vitamins, making this soup not just tasty but healthy too. And let’s not forget about the versatility! You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Lastly, this soup is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner, a gathering with friends, or simply as a comforting meal for yourself, everyone will be coming back for seconds. What’s not to love about that?

Why We Love This Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup

Effortless Preparation

One of the best features of Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup is how effortlessly it comes together. You can prepare this dish in less than 15 minutes by simply chopping your vegetables and adding everything to the slow cooker. This means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your day!

Rich and Comforting Flavors

The combination of chicken, garlic, and spices creates a deeply satisfying flavor. The broth becomes a delicious symphony of tastes, making each spoonful a delightful experience.

Nutrient-Packed Meal

This soup is not only comforting but also filled with healthy ingredients. Spinach, carrots, and celery provide essential nutrients and fiber, making it a guilt-free choice for a hearty meal.

Versatility

You can easily customize the recipe to fit your needs. Want to add more veggies or swap out the chicken for another protein? Go for it! This soup adapts to your taste and pantry.

Perfect for Meal Prepping

Make a big batch of Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup, and you’ll have meals ready for the week. Simply store it in the fridge or freezer for an easy grab-and-go option.

Family-Friendly Dish

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this soup pleases both kids and adults. It’s a meal that brings everyone together, creating warmth and joy around the table.

Ingredients Overview for Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup

When it comes to the ingredients for Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup, each component plays a vital role in creating the delicious final product. The combination of fresh and hearty ingredients not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a nutrient-rich meal. Let’s look at the key players:

1½ pounds shredded rotisserie chicken: This fully cooked chicken saves time and adds a savory depth to the soup.
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The base for your soup, providing moisture and flavor.
2 cups water: Balances the broth and helps create a lighter texture.
3 cloves garlic: Adds aromatic flavor and depth.
1 yellow onion: Provides sweetness and richness to the broth.
3 carrots: Brings natural sweetness and color.
3 ribs celery: Adds crunch and freshness.
30 ounces Great Northern beans: A comforting source of protein and heartiness.
2 bay leaves: Infuses the soup with earthy flavors.
4 cups baby spinach: A fresh component that wilts down beautifully into the soup.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.

The Process for Making Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup

Making your own Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup is a straightforward process that yields comforting results. Here’s how to do it in just a few easy steps:

First, gather all your ingredients. Start by placing the shredded rotisserie chicken, garlic, onion, carrots, celery, Great Northern beans, and bay leaves into a large slow cooker. This creates a beautiful base for your soup.
Next, season the mixture generously with Kosher salt and black pepper. Don’t be shy! Seasoning at this stage ensures that these flavors are absorbed throughout the cooking process.
Now, it’s time to pour in the low-sodium chicken broth along with the water. These liquids will meld with the ingredients to create a rich broth.
Stir in the baby spinach gently. The spinach will wilt as it cooks, adding a lovely green color and fresh taste to the soup.
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low heat for 7 to 8 hours, or high heat for 3 to 4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will develop.
Once the cooking time is complete, check the seasoning and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. It’s important to taste as you go!
Serve the soup immediately in bowls, garnished with additional spinach or some crusty bread on the side for dipping.
This soup is even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld, making it a perfect option for leftovers!

Things Worth Knowing

Flavor development: Slow cooking allows the ingredients to meld, creating a depth of flavor that’s hard to achieve with quick methods.
Texture matters: Make sure to cut your vegetables into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Storing leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to five days, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.
Freezing: You can freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to three months for a quick meal later.

Expert Tips about Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup

To make your Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup even better, I’ve gathered some expert tips that will elevate your cooking game:

Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Make sure it’s cooled before sealing to preserve freshness.
Freezing: This soup freezes beautifully! Portion it into containers and freeze for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated parmesan can also add an extra layer of flavor.
Spice it up: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein or leave it out entirely for a meat-free version.
Flavor boost: For an extra depth of flavor, sauté the onion and garlic in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker.
Make it creamy: Add a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving for a richer taste.

Serving Options for Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving your Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some great options to consider:

Crusty Bread: Pair your soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping. It’s perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
Salads: A fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a scoop of cooked rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.
Seasonal Gatherings: This soup is an ideal dish for winter gatherings or cozy family dinners, bringing warmth and comfort to any occasion.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week.
Garnish: Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley right before serving to add a touch of color and freshness.

FAQ

Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh chicken, just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the slow cooker. You can either roast, grill, or sauté it beforehand. This allows you to control the seasoning and ensures a tender finish. Just remember, fresh chicken will require a bit more prep time, but the flavors will still meld beautifully in the soup!

Leftovers of Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just make sure it has cooled down before sealing it to maintain freshness. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in individual portions. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!

Yes, you can easily make Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup vegetarian! Simply omit the chicken and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also add more beans, like black beans or chickpeas, to maintain the protein content. With a few adjustments, you’ll have a delicious vegetarian soup that’s just as comforting!

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. For a heartier meal, you can serve it over rice or quinoa. If you want to elevate the dish, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil on top before serving. These additions will complement the flavors beautifully!

Conclusion

The Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup is a perfect embodiment of comfort food, providing warmth and satisfaction in every bowl. With its simple ingredients and effortless preparation, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Don’t hesitate to give it a try; your taste buds will thank you for this cozy experience!